To the editor:
Governor Baldacci’s recent visits in the Fort Kent area, in the aftermath of the great flood, showed great support to our region’s fine people and are deeply appreciated. Upon hearing his assessment of how northern Mainers are known to handle adversity with resiliency, self-sufficiency and courage, it immediately brought to mind the impact Governor Baldacci could have on our region and state if he had the political will to bolster support for the completion of Highway North.
We understand that our state does not have the necessary funds for such a project. Our federal delegation tells us that if our state could come out in support of the plan, then we could get the necessary funds. The cost of such a project from our federal government is minimal.
Last fall, we organized a “St. John Valley Voice” Association. This organization represents all Valley municipalities and includes key people from every part of our region working in varied disciplines with no divided agendas. We feel it important to have such a Voice from our region to inform our politicians what is at stake for us economically, and to advise resolutions we know to be just and critical to our future. Politicians must clearly understand that we will support those who support us. Our Valley must step forward, continue to utilize our innovative spirit and strong work ethic, and call on some of Maine’s best minds and policy makers to help us implement economic development programs and infrastructure that will ultimately result in a better Aroostook and a better Maine.
We see our region as a region of the future. We see our region as a center of great economic and recreational activities. Our geographic location is one of great strategic importance for our country. Homeland Security has complete interest in our borders for national security. We can connect with the East-West Highway just across our St. John River. We are at the doorsteps of “Province de Quebec” which rates as the third or fourth highest economic region of North America in energy development, agricultural and resource development, and constructive technological applications. Our neighboring cities across our borders, in New Brunswick, have a population as large as the Bangor-Brewer area.
Why can’t our State recognize our region’s inherent strengths, capabilities and opportunities? Just as a starting point, we have long been endowed with the best farms and lumber products throughout all of New England. Add to this new technologies and processing innovations, and we can move into an era of producing unlimited energy resources.
A survey conducted last summer revealed that virtually all state of Maine municipalities have long favored the completion of Highway North to the St. John Valley. Aroostook County is part of Maine and the U.S.A., and why we should be treated differently from the rest of the state and country is beyond our comprehension. Maine people are behind our efforts. Please, let us not allow the few with greedy attitudes derail what is undeniably essential toward our developments. And yes, our state leaders have an obligation to listen, and to lead!
Governor Baldacci, our Association wants to commend you for your prompt and meaningful involvement during our difficult time. We surely appreciate your attention, your devoted efforts and your strong support. As always, you have an open invitation to meet and sit down with us to discuss the great economic possibilities in this part of Maine.
Grand Isle
